Ruger SP101 .357 Mag
Model: 5718
Ruger SP101 .357 Mag
Model: 5718
Full Specifications
About This Firearm
The SP101 is the small Ruger that punches above its weight class. At 26 oz and 7.2" overall, it is a 5-shot compact revolver built on a frame that feels significantly heavier and more solid than its dimensions suggest. The stainless steel construction is a scaled-down version of the GP100 philosophy: overbuilt, over-engineered, and ready for full-power .357 Mag loads that would batter lighter guns. That 26 oz weight is 9 oz heavier than the Ruger LCRx (17.1 oz), and every ounce of that difference matters when firing magnums.
The SP101 is the gun most often recommended for someone who wants to carry .357 Mag but actually shoot it at the range without dreading each trigger pull. The Kimber K6s holds 6 rounds at 23 oz, which is 3 oz lighter and one round more. But the K6s is DAO only, and the SP101's exposed hammer allows single-action shooting for deliberate shots. Owners consistently report the SP101 handles .357 Mag better than any other compact revolver because of that extra mass. The 2.25" barrel and integral rear sight are basic but reliable. This gun does one thing well: it carries .357 Mag in a package small enough for a belt holster and heavy enough to actually shoot comfortably.
Best For
Strengths & Limitations
- At 26 oz in all stainless steel, the SP101 absorbs .357 Mag recoil better than any other compact in its class. The Ruger LCRx at 17.1 oz and the Kimber K6s at 23 oz are both noticeably sharper with magnum loads.
- Exposed hammer allows single-action cocking for deliberate, accurate shots at longer distances. The Kimber K6s is DAO only with no SA option.
- Five-round cylinder when the Kimber K6s fits 6 rounds in a frame that is 3 oz lighter. That is a meaningful capacity disadvantage in the compact .357 class.
- The factory trigger is heavy in double-action and gritty in single-action. Like the GP100, it improves with dry-fire time and a spring swap, but the out-of-box experience is rough compared to the K6s or any S&W J-Frame.
Category Rankings
How the Ruger SP101 .357 Mag ranks among compact .357 Mag handguns.
Ballistics Calculator
Calculate trajectory, drop, and energy for .357 Mag ammunition.
.357 Mag Ballistics →Where to Buy
No prices available at this time.
Alternatives to Consider
Similar compact .357 Mag handguns ranked by similarity.
| NAME | BEST PRICE |
|---|---|
|
Taurus 605 .357 Mag
Taurus
|
— |
|
Kimber K6s Stainless .357 Mag
Kimber
|
— |
|
Ruger LCRx .357 Mag
Ruger
|
— |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the SP101 too heavy for everyday carry?
At 26 oz unloaded, the SP101 is heavier than most modern carry revolvers. The Ruger LCRx weighs 17.1 oz and the Kimber K6s weighs 23 oz. With a quality gun belt and a good holster, 26 oz is manageable for most people, but anyone used to carrying a polymer semi-auto under 20 oz will notice the difference immediately.
What speedloaders work with the Ruger SP101?
The SP101 uses Safariland J-ML or Comp I speedloaders, HKS Model 36-A, and Speed Beez SP101-specific models. Standard S&W J-Frame speedloaders do not fit because the SP101 cylinder is slightly wider. Check compatibility before buying in bulk.
Can I shoot .38 Special +P all day in the SP101?
Yes. At 26 oz, .38 Special +P in the SP101 feels mild. Many owners use .38 Special for range practice and carry, reserving .357 Mag for trail use or home defense. The gun is rated for unlimited .38 Special and .357 Mag in any combination.